Professional Reference Checks
Fast Track interviews your candidate’s professional references for you and sends back a written summary of each conversation. Checks cover 2–3 references as standard, and most reports arrive in 2–3 business days.
What we ask
Our standard question set covers:
- How the reference knows the candidate, and for how long
- Job responsibilities and performance
- Reliability, attendance and meeting deadlines
- Communication and teamwork
- Strengths and areas to develop
- Whether they would work with or rehire the candidate
You can add role-specific questions, such as leadership style for a manager or patient care for a nurse.
What we never ask
Questions about age, health, disability, religion, family plans, national origin or other protected characteristics are off limits, even if a reference brings them up. Our interviewers steer conversations back to job performance, which keeps your hiring process fair and legally safe.
How a reference check works
- The candidate lists 2–3 professional references and authorizes the check online.
- We reach each reference by phone or email and schedule a short interview.
- We ask the same structured questions of every reference, plus any you added.
- You get a report for each reference, with their answers and notes on anything that stood out.
What you get
A report for each reference with their answers, notes on anything the interviewer flagged, and a record of attempts if a reference couldn’t be reached.
Why use a third party?
Calling references yourself takes time, and references are often more candid with a neutral interviewer than with a future boss. A structured process also means every candidate is asked the same questions, which makes comparisons fair.
Consent rules for reference checks
When a screening company interviews references, the FCRA treats it as an “investigative consumer report.” The candidate must get a separate written disclosure about it, and has the right to ask for details of what was investigated. Fast Track includes this disclosure in the online consent.
What can delay a reference check?
- References who don’t return calls, especially managers who’ve moved companies
- Outdated contact details supplied by the candidate
- Company policies that bar managers from giving references, which we note on the report
Who uses reference checks?
Companies filling management and leadership roles, professional services firms, recruiters and executive search firms, and any hiring team without time to make the calls.
Often ordered with
- Employment Verification to confirm dates and titles
- Education Verification for degree requirements
- Criminal Background Checks for every hire
Frequently asked questions
How many references do you contact?
2–3 as standard. You can order more.
Who provides the references?
The candidate, through the online order form.
How long does a reference check take?
Most reports arrive in 2–3 business days, depending on how quickly references call back.
Can I add my own questions?
Yes. Add them when you place the order.
What if a reference won’t talk?
We record that the reference declined and why, if they say. Many companies limit managers to confirming dates and titles.
Can you reach references outside the U.S.?
Yes.
